Breakdowns and unexpected events
Smell petrol in your car? When to stop
A persistent smell of petrol may mean there is a leak. Pull over safely, switch off the engine and call for assistance.
Do not ignore a strong or sudden smell of fuel. Avoid flames and attempted repairs, and assess the risk before driving again.
Make people and the vehicle safe
If you notice a strong or worsening petrol smell, slow down without making sudden manoeuvres and stop somewhere safe, away from moving traffic. Switch off the engine and have passengers get out only if they can do so without entering a dangerous area. Move away from the vehicle and do not smoke or use flames or equipment that could ignite vapour.
If the smell is strong, you can see fuel on the ground or suspect a leak, do not restart the car or try to find the fault by touching components. Call roadside assistance; if there is immediate danger or a risk to others, contact the emergency services. Follow the operator’s instructions and give your location, direction of travel and whether passengers are present.
Tell a temporary smell from a fault
You may notice a smell near the fuel cap just after filling up, but if it enters the cabin, persists or returns while driving, get it checked. Do not drive on to “see if it goes away”. Fuel is flammable and a leak can worsen with vibration or heat. Not seeing drips does not rule out a problem.
Do not pour water or cleaning products over the engine, open hot parts or use electrical tools near the car. Diagnosis and repair are for a qualified technician. Explain when you noticed the symptom, whether you had recently refuelled and which warning lights came on.
Drive again only after a check
If the assistance operator says the car needs transporting, do not drive it to the garage. Keep any fuel receipts and note dashboard messages. Before using the car again, ask for confirmation that the cause has been fixed and the vehicle is safe to drive.
If you smell a strong petrol odour, pull over as soon as it is safe, switch off the engine and move everyone away from traffic. Do not smoke, use flames or restart the vehicle. Call for help and say whether you can see a leak or the smell began just after refuelling.
Quiz Patente Ufficiale offers chapter-based theory study, timed quizzes and error review; a suspected fault or leak needs professional assistance.
Frequently asked questions
Can I carry on if the smell goes away?
If it was strong, entered the cabin or comes back, stop safely and have the car checked before driving again.
Should I open the bonnet to look for the leak?
Do not approach possible vapour or touch components. Move away and call for assistance.